Tamaulipas, Mexico – In an unprecedented effort to address a surge in crocodile sightings, Mexican authorities have captured a total of 206 crocodiles in just over two weeks in the border state of Tamaulipas. The operation, which has involved both federal and state agencies, has been prompted by the overflowing of rivers and dams due to heavy rains and the overpopulation of these reptiles in certain lagoons.
Typically, such incidents occur sporadically in lake regions, but the recent severe weather, first from Tropical Storm Alberto and subsequently from Tropical Storm Beryl, has exacerbated the situation. The torrential rains caused numerous swamp crocodiles (Crocodylus moreletii) to leave their habitats and venture into urban areas in search of food, often entering towns through drainage systems.
The surge in crocodile sightings has led to numerous reports on social media and emergency calls, prompting the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa) to collaborate with state authorities in a “mass capture” initiative. To ensure public safety, the crocodiles’ snouts were securely held during the capture process.
“Before, they didn’t leave their areas… But in the last five years, it’s been exponential,” said David Francisco Garcés, a veterinarian with over two decades of experience in wildlife care, who operates a clinic in Tampico. According to Garcés, the unchecked population growth of crocodiles combined with the recent heavy rains has caused the reptiles to leave their traditional habitats en masse.
In a statement, Profepa reported that authorities captured 41 crocodiles in just three days at the end of June. Further, the Tamaulipas Department of Urban Development and Environment announced that in early July, 135 crocodiles were captured in Ciudad Madero and Tampico, and 30 in Altamira.
The state government has called for enhanced inter-institutional coordination to address the issue, which has caused considerable concern among residents. Officials emphasized the necessity of population control measures for crocodiles, balancing conservation efforts with public safety.
Garcés, who also oversees animal rescue and rehabilitation, highlighted the critical need for controlled environments such as crocodile farms or research centers to house these reptiles safely and mitigate risks to the human population. He received 32 newborn crocodiles from Profepa two months ago and stressed the adaptability of the species, noting that without proper management, accidents and conflicts will continue.
“There have been some accidents, and some people have even kept them as pets or killed them for food,” Garcés noted. “The problem is growing, and there is no private organization or government agency that can fully address it. There will not be a healthy coexistence between the two species until there is a place where the Moreletii crocodiles can live safely.”
While authorities have relocated the captured crocodiles to remote areas, Garcés warned that the lack of a clear methodology and designated habitats means the reptiles could return to populated areas. “Where are they going to relocate them if there is no place?” he questioned. “There is no clear plan for what is going to be done with them.”
As the water levels from the recent floods recede, Profepa has cautioned that more crocodiles will likely become visible, leading to an increase in sightings and potential encounters with humans. The agency continues to urge residents to report any sightings to ensure timely and safe interventions.